We are pleased to share that our acclaimed zipline tours are now complemented by two new offerings: Guided kayak tours of Santa Margarita Lake and guided wildlife “Hummer” tours at the historic Santa Margarita Ranch.
“While we have made our name with our zipline tours, we are excited to broaden the scope of Margarita Adventures and provide guests with exciting new ways to explore the natural world around us,” says Karl Wittstrom, proprietor of Margarita Adventures.
Here is the lowdown on our new offerings:
Guided Wildlife “Hummer” Tours at Santa Margarita Ranch
The two-hour wildlife tours feature a guided ride out to Santa Margarita Ranch in a vintage 1986 H1 military “Hummer.” On this outdoor chariot, we are able to take you to remote parts of the ranch that adjoin the Los Padres National Forest and the Santa Lucia Wilderness. These areas such as the Trout Creek Drainage and the Mountain Field were previously inaccessible to the public, and they are rich in diverse ecosystems and natural beauty.
Here, our staff naturalist provides information on local ecosystems and the environment. You are also taught how to identify different species of plants and animals, providing insight into how natural systems and life cycles connect us all. Frequent sightings of native wildlife include eagles (bald and golden), a variety of hawks and other birds of prey, deer, turkeys, ducks, valley quail, mourning doves, pigs and the occasional black bear.
The wildlife “Hummer” tours are offered every weekday starting at 8:30 a.m. The tour cost is $39 per person.
Guided Kayak Tours at Santa Margarita Lake
The kayak tours consist of a four-hour educational excursion that spans three miles on Santa Margarita Lake. Kayaks are provided, and a Margarita Adventures guide leads the way, offering insights into the lake’s unique rock formations, surrounding ecosystem and native wildlife. Hawks, herons, deer and even bald eagles are sometimes spotted during the excursion. Guests also enjoy a snack break along the lake shore midway through the tour.
The kayak tours are offered on Thursdays through Sundays at 9 a.m. The cost is $89 for adults and $69 for children.
“The proliferation of rain last winter and spring have restored the lake and rejuvenated its beautiful surroundings,” says Brittany Tomasko, general manager of Margarita Adventures. “We are excited to help people discover this local treasure in such an invigorating way.”
